Located right in the center of France’s Mediterranean coast, Marseille is perfectly placed for adventures across the South of France.
The city itself is a mishmash of old and new. Ancient Byzantine churches sit alongside futuristic glass skyscrapers by Zaha Hadid. The peach-hued streets cradle an incredible array of cultures — from China and Vietnam to Morocco and Mali — thanks to the city’s millennia-old status as an important trading hub.
While you can easily spend days getting lost in Marseille’s dense neighborhoods and sampling exotic street food, there are also plenty of coastal cities and historical sights just a short train ride away. Climb aboard to explore quaint Aix-de-Provence or historic Arles — and still be back in time for dinner.
Wondering where to go? Here are some of our favorite day trips from Marseille.
Image Credit: Getty Images, John Elk III. Image Location: Place des Moulins, Marseille, France
Aix-en-Provence
Journey time: 11m
Practically in the suburbs of Marseille, you’ll find the elegant city of Aix-en-Provence. Fountain-decked squares and wide leafy boulevards rub shoulders with buzzing shopping streets and bars packed with students.
Artist Paul Cézanne was born here. His spirit lives on in his light-flooded studio, Atelier de Cézanne, which is open to the public. Aix-en-Provence is also home to Conservatory Darius Milhaud, one of the oldest music and dance academies in France. Expect a profusion of live music around the city, from jazz clubs to classical events like the Festival de Pâques d'Aix-en-Provence.
Avignon
Journey time: 29m
A romantic, fairytale feel pervades Avignon with its cobblestone streets, turreted castle, and arched bridges. Visit the Palais des Papes, the world’s largest gothic palace that was home to seven popes for almost 100 years. Every July, the Festival d’Avignon, one of the most prestigious theater festivals in the world, is held here. Book tickets in advance, if you want to attend. It’s just a short walk from the Palais is Les Halles d'Avignon food market, which is packed with Provence produce. Grab a picnic lunch to enjoy on the banks of the Rhône river.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Westend61. Image Location: Arles, France
Arles
Journey time: 1h 22m
Just south-west of Avignon by train is Arles, once a major trading post for the Roman Empire. Its ancient heritage can be seen today in the beautifully-preserved amphitheater, built in 100 AD. It still hosts performances nearly 2,000 years later; but expect races and concerts rather than gladiator fighting.
As our city guide explains, Arles has also long boasted a vibrant art scene. Both Pablo Picasso and Vincent Van Gogh were drawn to the ancient city for its beautiful light and surrounding countryside. Head to the Fondation Vincent Van Gogh Arles to discover more about the life of the Dutch artist and his iconic paintings of Arles.
Sète
Journey time: 1h 56m
Silky sand beaches and two yacht-dotted marinas await in Sète, a coastal city perched on a narrow isthmus, just south of Montpellier. It’s known as Little Venice, thanks to its network of canals lined with pastel-colored townhouses.
You won’t find major tourist attractions here, but you will get a taste of real Languedoc. Cycle to pristine Jalabert Beach or hike up Mont Saint-Clair for incredible views across the city and saltwater lagoon, followed by dinner at Le Véradier. Expect seafood platters piled high with pink lobster, langoustines, and oysters, fresh off the boats that dock in the harbor.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Fraser Hall. Image Location: Cours Saleya, Old TownNice, France
Nice
Journey time: 2h 27m
Glamorous Nice has long been a popular holiday destination on the glittering Cote d’Azur. British aristocrats flocked here during the 18th century to escape dreary winters back in the UK.
Today, the famous 4 mile waterfront walkway is named the Promenade des Anglais. Stroll along the palm tree-lined path, flanked by luxury hotels, sweet-scented boulangeries, and wine shops.
Just a short walk from here, you’ll find artworks by two 20th-century greats — Henri Matisse and Marc Chagall — at their gem-packed museums. Alternatively, the Marché de la Brocante is well worth a visit for bargain hunters and vintage clothing aficionados, if you’re visiting on a Monday.
Your French Riviera adventures start with Trainline. Download the Trainline app today and start booking your journey to these coastal destinations, and more. Bon voyage!
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, David C Tomlinson. Image Location: Old Port, Marseille, France
